Boss Ruben Amorim contends that changing Manchester United's formation due to media noise would have meant "the end" for him.
For the first time against Newcastle United, Amorim abandoned his customary back three formation with wing-backs and chose to use an traditional four-man defense shielded by two holding midfielders.
He himself conceded this effectively functioned as a back six in the closing phase as his side clung on for a victory - securing just their second clean sheet of the campaign.
Despite he once memorably said that even the highest authority could pressure him to change his system, Amorim asserts the ability to experiment with varied formations has remained part of his long-term vision.
Nevertheless, he clarifies he could only make the switch when his team were faring well enough - otherwise it would appear as if he was giving in to external criticism.
"When I came here the previous campaign, I recognized perhaps I lacked the players to perform effectively in a back three, but it was the commencement of a process," he stated.
"The goal was to build an style. Currently is a distinct moment. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we have to adapt, so they see why we are making changes.
"It is not because of the pressure of journalists, or the faithful.
"Whenever you discuss altering the system repeatedly, I cannot make a change because the squad will understand I'm changing because of you and I believe that is a disaster for the manager.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the opportunity to evolve.
"We are going to become a more complete squad because when our full complement of personnel are available, we are not going to employ three defenders exclusively."
Squad Crisis Loom Large
With just two wins in eight games prior to beating Newcastle, it is arguable whether Amorim is correct to claim his team have been playing well.
He is, though, operating with a depleted roster, with seven senior stars already unavailable for the forthcoming home game against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will increase if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his exit from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is a key name who will be absent for the Wolves clash, despite the fact he is understood to be pressing his boss to let him to return after his hamstring injury.
"Bruno is already insisting he has to practice," said Amorim. "However there is absolutely no possibility he is going to feature against Wolves. No chance. You can quote me on that."
Fernandes' Influence Is Unwavering
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will almost certainly still be heavily involved, as whereas most injured stars watch matches from a private box, Fernandes was observed keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the player's tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim is sure his leader to continue offering input.
"The guy is a natural leader," he declared. "He must not be that guy that when he is not playing, he's silent and offering advice. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the skipper.
"He has negative aspects at times - the way he gesticulates - but he has a lot of good things. After he recovers, he goes to observe the other guys training. There are a many things that go unnoticed.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. He is a true captain."
Recovery Timeline for Injured Players
While the precise timeline for the captain's comeback - and that of other injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international competition.
